Suspension preference, light spring more comprrsion or stiffer spring and back off compression,,your likes?

I always like more spring in desert riding. Even in fast mx. Trail riding is only place I would generally like softer fork springs.

Ive got stiffer springs and softer valving on my bike. Im digging it.

It is not as easy as you think. Stiffer spring means faster rebound. Fast rebound requires a well tuned compression to really hold up the bike before it starts to rebound. It also requires slower rebound. 1 Spring rate clickers can handle, but typically not more.

On jump faces for example, you want the comp to help holding up the bike because if it is all spring, you can expect a over the bars experience...

I have never gotten a shock valved successfully so i can go down on springs, just does not work. It maybe works if you are a shorter rider that dont move much on the bike.

Im a 48nm guy, i have raced with 42, 44, 46 and tested with 50 and 52. None works as good as the 48 even with various valvings.

Depending on how much rate increase, you can generally get by with minor mods to reb. Also, one of the best valving specs I use creates an excellent curve with low speed chassis support, and high speed compliancy; via hoop shims. Been working on fork valving , but the hoops become rare for smaller pistons.

Depends on the track, a track with big g-outs needs more comp damping, choppy, square-edge more sprong less comp.

The springs (or air) are only there to hold the bike at the proper attitude. Spring for your weight, and valve to suit the springs and rider preference.